Whitchurch-Stouffville has received a 95-acre park donation from Magna International, marking one of the largest gifts of public greenspace in the town’s history. The property, located at 13078 Woodbine Ave. in Gormley, was formally handed over at a ceremony attended by Mayor Iain Lovatt and council members.
The donated park, known as Simeon Park, will increase Stouffville’s parkland by nearly 50 percent, making it the town’s largest public park. For over 40 years, the site served as a private retreat for Magna employees. Now it will open to all residents at no cost to taxpayers.
“This is a truly historic and generational gift to Stouffville,” Mayor Lovatt said during the ceremony. The property includes an outdoor swimming pool, sports fields, a playground, pavilion, volleyball and tennis courts, a guest house, and an extensive trail network.
Magna International, headquartered in Aurora, Ontario, said the donation helps preserve green space in a rapidly growing community. “By donating this 95-acre property to the Town of Stouffville, we are proud to help preserve an important green space and open its next chapter as a public community asset for residents, families and future generations to enjoy,” a company statement read.
Stouffville is one of Canada’s fastest-growing municipalities, with its population nearly doubling in 20 years. Town officials said the donation helps meet future parkland needs without typical capital costs. The property’s existing facilities are expected to be integrated into the town’s recreation network, with public access planned as maintenance and operations transition to the municipality.
